EASA Ends Conflict Zone Information Bulletins for Israel and Iran, Citing Decreased Tensions

The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has announced that it will not extend the Conflict Zone Information Bulletins (CZIB) for Israel and Iran, which expired on January 31. These bulletins, which serve as risk mitigation tools for the EU, are issued to advise airlines on the safety risks of operating in certain high-risk areas.

EASA’s decision to discontinue the CZIBs comes after what it described as “recent developments” including ceasefire agreements and a reduction in short-term tensions. The bulletins, which had previously highlighted the volatility and risks in the Middle East, have now been replaced by Information Notes for both countries. These notes include recommendations for air operators to “exercise caution” and follow relevant aeronautical updates, including those from the European Information Sharing and Cooperation Platform. Specifically, the advisory for Iran suggests considering daylight operations only, as part of a continued cautious approach to the region’s airspace.

While the CZIBs for Israel and Iran have been lifted, Lebanon's CZIB has been extended through March 2025, reflecting ongoing concerns in that region. EASA, along with EU member states, will continue to monitor the situation closely and assess whether the risks for EU aircraft operators increase or decrease as the situation evolves.

The agency’s monitoring efforts are in place to ensure that, in the event of escalating risks, appropriate safety measures and advisories will be implemented.

The move coincides with a broader trend in aviation, as international airlines, such as United Airlines, are resuming flights to Israel after a temporary suspension due to the security situation. United will restart its New York-Tel Aviv flights on March 18, 2024, and will become the first US carrier to do so, with Delta Airlines following suit in April and the EASA’s actions reflecting a cautious optimism regarding the region's stability.